This is a natural time for each of us to pause and reflect upon the year about to end, and to think of what is to come. Despite the gloomy economic news and other national and international challenges that face each of us on a daily basis, we can still be thankful for so much. At Bowdoin, we are profoundly grateful for the support and encouragement of our alumni, parents, and friends, and deeply proud of what our students, faculty, and staff have accomplished and of what this College represents.

We decided to send our holiday wishes differently this year for reasons of conservation and sustainability, but also because this method allows us to share our best wishes along with a small sampling of what makes Bowdoin so special. Over this holiday season, as you spend time with family, friends, and colleagues, we hope you will take a moment or two for reflection and to listen to the music and readings performed by our gifted students and faculty.

On behalf of all of us at the College, we wish you and your families a joyous and safe holiday season and a healthy, happy, and rewarding New Year.